Sharing Jesus In All Circumstances
LENT 2022 | DAY 37
Matthew 26:57-75 (NIV)
(Tiffany Teo, Chairperson, Youth Ministry)
READ:
Matthew 26:57-75 (NIV)
OBSERVE:
Today’s passage has two segments. The latter (v69-75) is the part where Peter denies Jesus three times, as foretold by Jesus. From the earlier part of Matthew 26, Peter outrightly objected to Jesus’ foretelling that “this very night, before the rooster crows”, Peter would disown him three times (v34). And yet he did. Upon realising that Jesus’ words had come to pass, Peter wept bitterly, perhaps out of regret and shame.
APPLY:
This passage reveals Peter’s reflexes when someone tries to associate him with Jesus, who at that point was not the most popular individual. He immediately denied the association, and kept denying it. Are we the same today? When it’s comfortable, we are happy to be in church, lifting up our hands to praise Him. When it’s easy, we share testimonies, verses and quotes on our social media platforms. But how about when it’s less than comfortable? Perhaps it’s the taxi uncle who suddenly starts talking about religion, or the colleague who broaches the topic of Christianity in a negative light. Are we brave enough to say that we have chosen to follow Jesus?
DO:
Firstly, this passage is an urgent reminder that I need to keep my eyes and heart open to the opportunities and circumstances that allow me to show my faith, especially those that are more uncomfortable. And then when those circumstances present themselves, I need to pray for wisdom and courage, to share a little bit of Jesus in whatever way He is nudging me, and finally actually take the step of faith to do it.
PRAY:
Dear God, thank You for the great gift of grace that You have given us – Your son Jesus Christ. Too often we cheapen this gift, and we do so by denying You. Give us Your strength, grace, and wisdom to share Your love with others, in ways You’ve provided for us. We cannot do this without You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
